BMW M135i surfaces [w/video]

Posted 14th May, 2012 in BMW, Videos | Leave a comment

Following on from the impressive concept, BMW has revealed its production version of the M135i in line with the new three-door 1 Series range.

Along with models such as the entry-level 75 kW (102 hp) 114i, 160 kW (218 hp) 125i and 85 kW (116 hp) 116d and the 160 kW (218 hp) 125d diesels will sit the flagship M135i, which is the first petrol-engined BMW M Performance automobile following the X5 M50d and X6 M50d oil-burners.

Powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six-cylinder, which develops 235 kW (320 hp) and 450 Nm of torque, the sprint to 100 km/h is carried out in 5.1 seconds (automatic: 4.9 s) while top speed is limited to 250 km/h. A newly developed six-speed manual gearbox comes as standard, with a flappy paddle eight-speed automatic transmission available as an option.

Visually the M135i wears more aggressive clothing, including a front apron with larger air intakes, side skirts, 18-inch M light alloy double-spoke wheels with a Dark Shadow metallic rear apron shrouding those dual tailpipes. The body is also fitted with the company’s Individual high-gloss Shadow Line, while the mirrors are painted Ferric Grey regardless of which of the one of the five metallic colours or one non-metallic is specified.

Due to go on sale in Europe as both a three- and five-door model, rumours suggest that it will arrive in America later on.